Community

New fitness center targets obesity in kids

A pediatric nurse practitioner sees the need and opens Kicks for Kids in Spring Hill.

By DEREK J. LaRIVIERE, Times Correspondent
Published November 23, 2007

Jennifer Siem leads kids, including Christian Riddle, 7, through an exercise routine at Kicks for Kids Fitness Center in Spring Hill.
	[Maurice Rivenbark | Times]

Eight years ago, Heather Riddle started dreaming up Kicks for Kids.

As a pediatric nurse practitioner, Riddle had firsthand knowledge and experience with the childhood obesity epidemic. Kicks for Kids, a state-of-the-art fitness center and health counseling institute for overweight children in Spring Hill, was her way of contributing to the solution.

"There are so many gyms around here that are aimed toward adults and seniors," Riddle said. "With child obesity being such a big issue in our country today, it makes no sense that there is no place for kids to stay healthy."

According to HealthierGeneration.org, 17.1 percent of today's children are obese. Hernando County is no exception.

With two classes already up and running, Kicks for Kids offers fitness options for local youth.

The morning Mommy & Me class is for stay-at-home parents with children younger than 5.

Riddle teaches that class with volunteer assistance from one of the parents involved, Eve Bennett.

"I have five kids and all of them are involved in one of the classes," Bennett said. "Since we began a couple weeks ago, they've stopped playing the X-Box and started playing outside."

The other class is tentatively being called Cardio Kids. This evening class includes school-aged children between 5 and 15.

Another key staff member, Jennifer Siem, oversees the activities done over the course of the two-hour nightly session.

Siem has been instrumental in the quick start for Kicks for Kids, according to Riddle.

As a certified fitness instructor, Siem is able to offer a wealth of knowledge to her group, which includes 10 children.

"I am really excited about the opportunities that this program brings to local children," Siem said. "So many are lacking the knowledge and support to grow up healthy, strong and confident."

After gaining some interest while running a booth at the Spring Hill 40th Anniversary Festival last month, the center opened its doors Oct. 20.

Since then, Riddle said she has seen interest grow.

Cost to join is $50 per family for initial lifetime registration; $35 per month for Mommy & Me classes; $75 per month for Cardio Kids.

Parents have been quick to volunteer their help to keep these classes growing.

Riddle continues to work because deep down she believes in one thing - a program like Kicks for Kids could make a dent in childhood obesity.

Submit feedback and/or info to kdixon@sptimes.com or call (352) 544-9480.

[Last modified November 22, 2007, 20:50:35]